History of the grape: The name means “little sweet one” in Italian. Dolcetto, along with Barbera and Nebbiolo is one of the prized grapes of the Piedmont region in Italy, with evidence that it has been growing there for many centuries. It had been traditionally produced as a light (both in color and weight) table wine. More recently the trend is for bolder versions made from grapes that have been given a longer hang time to amplify their power and ageworthiness, but this also results in raising its alcohol levels. For this reason, Dolcetto can now be found in the traditional light style as well as big concentrated styles. Wines labeled “Superiore” are often a good tip that these are older Read more »

History of the grape: The name means “little sweet one” in Italian. Dolcetto, along with Barbera and Nebbiolo is one of the prized grapes of the Piedmont region in Italy, with evidence that it has been growing there for many centuries. It had been traditionally produced as a light (both in color and weight) table wine. More recently the trend is for bolder versions made from grapes that have been given a longer hang time to amplify their power and ageworthiness, but this also results in raising its alcohol levels. For this reason, Dolcetto can now be found in the traditional light style as well as big concentrated styles. Wines labeled “Superiore” are often a good tip that these are older, bigger, but often more structured wines.

Characteristics of the grape: traditional styles are light purple in color with low tannins, light cherry, raspberry, jammy, with hints of spice. The modern styles are much darker in color with heavier body, blackberry, dark cherry, black currant, prunes, licorice, coffee, dark chocolate.

Regions where the grape is currently important: There are several official Italian Dolcetto designations which are named for the growing area: Dolcetto d’Acqui, Dolcetto d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Asti, Dolcetto di Diano d’Alba, Dolcetto di Dogliani, Dolcetto d’Ovada and Dolcetto delle Langhe Monregalesi. In other parts of the world: California, Oregon, Australia.